186 Visa Australia: New Eligibility, Cost & Apply Guide 2025

The Subclass 186 Visa Australia is also known as the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS). It is one of the pathways used for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency (PR) in Australia. The Subclass 186 Visa Australia allows Australian employers to offer sponsorship to foreign workers to secure a permanent position. In 2025, the subclass 186 visa Australia will play an important role in Australia’s skilled migration pathways, which reflects the labour shortages in the workforce while offering them permanent residency to international professionals.

This guide provides a complete explanation of the subclass 186 visa Australia, which includes the application process, benefits, eligibility requirements, and employer criteria.

Latest Facts & News: 186 Visa Australia (2025)

• New Age Limit Confirmed: Applicants must be under 45 at the time of application, with limited exemptions.

• Updated Fees: The base application fee is now AUD 4,770 for the main applicant; additional costs apply for partners and children.

• Processing Times: Direct Entry Stream: 75% processed within 83 days, 90% within 6 months; TRT Stream: 75% in 6 months, 90% in 10 months.

• English Requirement: Minimum IELTS 6.0 in each component (or equivalent test) is mandatory for all streams.

• Occupation List: Only occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) are eligible.

• Permanent Residency Pathway: The 186 visa grants full PR rights, including work, study, Medicare, and citizenship eligibility.

• Employer Nomination: The employer must lodge a nomination before the visa application.

• Family Inclusion: Spouses and dependent children can be included in the application.

• Compliance Obligations: Visa holders must remain in the nominated position for at least 2 years or risk cancellation.

• Recent Policy Changes: English and skills exemptions for high earners (>AUD 180,000) have been removed.

Also Read: Skilled Labour Visa Australia: Latest Process, Jobs, Fees

What is 186 Visa in Australia?

It’s really important to understand what the 186 visa is in Australia. The 186 Visa in Australia is also known as the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS). It is one of the pathways used for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency (PR) in Australia. The Subclass 186 Visa Australia allows Australian employers to offer sponsorship to foreign workers to secure a permanent position.

In 2025, the subclass 186 visa Australia will play an important role in Australia’s skilled migration pathways, which reflects the labour shortages in the workforce while offering them permanent residency to international professionals. The 186 Visa in Australia is a preferred PR pathway because it offers permanent residency, access to Medicare, and the ability to sponsor eligible family members. It’s a valuable option for both employers seeking to retain talent and skilled professionals aiming to build a future in Australia.

What are the Streams of the Australia Visa 186 in 2025?

The Australia visa 186 offers three distinct pathways for skilled workers to obtain permanent residency through employer nomination. These streams are designed to require different candidate profiles, depending on their work experience, current visa status, and whether they’re sponsored under a formal labour agreement. Understanding each stream helps applicants and employers choose the most suitable route for a successful sponsorship visa Australia 186 application.

Direct Entry Stream

The Direct Entry Stream in Australia visa 186 is ideal for skilled workers who may not have extensive work experience in Australia but possess recognised qualifications and skills. This stream requires a skills assessment and is open to those outside or inside Australia.

Key Features of Australia Visa 186:

• For candidates not previously employed in Australia or working for less than 3 years.

• Requires a positive skills assessment in an occupation on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List).

• Applicant must be under 45 years of age (some exemptions apply).

• Must meet English language requirements (usually competent English).

Eligibility for the Australia Visa 186:

• Nominated by an approved Australian employer.

• At least 3 years of relevant work experience.

• Occupation listed on the eligible skilled occupation list.

• Meet health and character requirements.

Temporary Residence Transition Stream

The Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream allows skilled workers currently on a 457 visa or Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa to transition to PR after working with the same employer for a set period.

Key Features:

• For applicants who have worked full-time for the same employer for at least 3 years.

• No new skills assessment required if already assessed for 457 or 482.

• Must have been nominated for the same occupation previously held.

• Applicant must be under 45 years old.

Eligibility:

• Holder of a 457 or 482 visa.

• Nominated by the same employer under whom the applicant has worked for 3 years.

• Meet English, health, and character requirements.

• Occupation must be on the relevant list at the time of nomination.

Also Read: ETA Visa Australia (601): Latest Complete Visa Guide

Labour Agreement Stream

The Labour Agreement Stream is designed for skilled workers sponsored under a labour agreement between an Australian employer and the Australian Government. These agreements help employers fill labor shortages that cannot be met through the standard visa programs.

Key Features:

• Suitable for niche or regional industries.

• Occupations and criteria are determined in the specific labour agreement.

• May allow age, English, or skill exemptions.

• Offers a pathway to employer-sponsored permanent residency.

Eligibility:

• Nominated under a valid labour agreement.

• Meet age, health, and character requirements (some flexibility depending on agreement terms).

• Fulfil English language standards and any occupation-specific criteria.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for the 186 Visa in Australia?

To apply for the Australia visa 186, applicants must meet a clear set of eligibility requirements under the Employer Nomination Scheme. These conditions ensure that only qualified, skilled individuals are granted permanent residency through this employer-sponsored visa. Below is a detailed checklist of criteria, designed to help answer common queries like “What is 186 visa in Australia eligibility?”

1. Nomination by an Approved Employer

• Must be nominated by an Australian employer who is approved by the Department of Home Affairs.
• The position must be genuine, full-time, and available for at least two years.

2. Occupation Requirement

• The nominated occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list (MLTSSL or as per the labour agreement).
• For Direct Entry, a skills assessment in that occupation is mandatory.

3. Age Limit

• Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
• Exemptions apply for certain occupations, high-salary earners, or under labour agreements.

3. Skills and Work Experience

• Must have at least three years of relevant post-qualification work experience.
• A positive skills assessment may be required (mainly for Direct Entry applicants).

4. English Language Proficiency

• Must demonstrate Competent English (e.g., IELTS score of 6.0 in each band or equivalent).
• Exemptions are available for passport holders from certain English-speaking countries.

5. Health Requirements

• Must meet the Australian health standards via a medical examination.
• Family members included in the application must also undergo health checks.

6. Character Requirements

• Police clearance certificates are required from all countries where the applicant lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
• Must pass the character test under Australian migration law.

7. No Visa Cancellation History

• Applicants must not have had a visa refused or cancelled while in Australia, unless they can demonstrate compelling reasons.

Also Read: New Requirements By the Australian Government On English Language Test For Visas

Latest Step-by-Step Australia Visa 186 Application Process in 2025

Applying for the Australia Visa 186 involves several important stages, from employer nomination to receiving the visa decision. Understanding each step clearly can increase your chances of success and help you stay compliant with the immigration requirements under the Employer Nomination Scheme. Below is a detailed breakdown of the 186 visa Australia application process in sequential order.

1. Confirm Eligibility

Before beginning the process, ensure you meet all the Australia visa 186 eligibility criteria, including:

• Occupation on the skilled list

• Age limit (under 45)

• English language proficiency

• Work experience and skills

• Health and character requirements

 2. Employer Lodges a Nomination

The first official step is for your Australian employer to lodge a nomination with the Department of Home Affairs.

Key details:

• Must offer a full-time, permanent role in an eligible occupation.

• Pay the nomination fee and the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy.

• Prove the position is genuine and cannot be filled by a local worker.

3. Complete Skills Assessment (if applicable)

If applying under the Direct Entry stream, you must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.

Note:

• This step is usually not required for applicants under the TRT stream.

• The assessing body varies based on your occupation (e.g., Engineers Australia, VETASSESS).

4. Gather Required Documents

Prepare and collect all the necessary documents, including:

• Identity and passport copies

• Skills assessment result (if required)

• Employment references

• English test results (IELTS, PTE, etc.)

• Health examination reports

• Police clearance certificates

5. Lodge the Visa Application

Once the employer’s nomination is approved or lodged, you can submit your 186 visa Australia application online through ImmiAccount.

Tips:

• Apply within 6 months of the nomination.

• Ensure all documents are accurate and in the correct format.

6. Attend Medical Exams and Provide Biometrics

You’ll receive instructions for:

• Medical examinations by an approved panel physician

• Biometrics appointment (if required)

7. Wait for Visa Decision

The Department of Home Affairs will process your application, which may take several months depending on the stream.

During this stage:

• You may be asked for additional documents or to clarify information.

• Monitor updates via your ImmiAccount.

8. Receive a Visa Grant and Start Your New Life in Australia

If approved, you will receive your 186 Visa grant letter, which confirms your permanent resident status.

Benefits include:

• Live and work in Australia indefinitely

• Enrol in Medicare

• Sponsor eligible relatives

• Apply for Australian citizenship (after meeting residency requirements)

186 Visa Australia Cost, Fees and Other Expenses in 2025

The 186 visa Australia cost includes not only the government application charges but also additional expenses like skills assessments, English tests, health exams, and police clearances. Below is a table of the 186 visa Australia cost: 

Also Read: Australia Visa Application: Experts' Complete Visa Guide

Employer Sponsorship Visa Australia 186: Employer’s Role & Obligations in 2025

Employers play a crucial role in the Sponsorship Visa Australia 186 process. They must not only nominate a skilled worker for permanent residency but also meet specific obligations to ensure compliance with Australian immigration laws. The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) is structured to support businesses that genuinely need skilled labour and are committed to employing the applicant on a long-term basis.

Sponsorship Visa Australia 186 Employer Responsibilities

1. Be an Approved Sponsor

• The employer must be lawfully operating in Australia.
• No history of breaching immigration or workplace laws.
• Must register as a standard business sponsor if not already approved.

2. Lodge a Valid Nomination

• Submit a nomination for a genuine, full-time position that will last at least 2 years.
• The nominated occupation must be on the relevant Skilled Occupation List.
• Include evidence of labour market testing (if required) and business need.

3. Pay Nomination Charges & SAF Levy

• Nomination fee: INR 29,700.
• Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy:

• • • INR 1.65 lakh for businesses with turnover < AUD 10 million.

    • INR 2.75 lakh for businesses with turnover ≥ AUD 10 million.

4. Offer Market Salary Rate

• The employee must be paid the market rate salary for the nominated role.
• The wage must not be less than the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) – currently INR 38.5 lakh annually.

5. Support Employee Permanently

• Must intend to employ the worker in the nominated position once the visa is granted
• Ensure the role and duties remain aligned with the nominated occupation.

6. Comply with Post-Nomination Obligations

• Keep records of employment and visa compliance.
• Notify the Department of any changes in employment terms.
• Allow the Department to conduct site visits or audits if required.

What are the Benefits of the 186 Visa Australia in 2025?

The 186 Visa Australia offers numerous advantages to skilled workers and their families, making it one of the most sought-after pathways to permanent residency. This visa not only allows you to live and work indefinitely in Australia but also provides access to essential services and long-term benefits.

• Permanent Residency Status: Grants permanent resident rights, allowing you to live and work anywhere in Australia without restrictions.

• Work and Study Rights: You and your family members can work and study in Australia without needing additional visas or permissions.

• Access to Medicare: Eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public health care system, ensures affordable medical services and treatment.

• Family Inclusion: Allows you to include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your application, providing them with the same rights and benefits.

• Pathway to Australian Citizenship: After fulfilling residency requirements (usually 1 year as a permanent resident and 4 years total in Australia), you can apply for Australian citizenship.

Also Read: Australia 190 Visa Processing Time: Full Guide & Expert Tips

Updated Processing Time for 186 Visa Australia in 2025

The processing time for the 186 Visa Australia varies depending on the stream under which you apply. As of April 2025, the Department of Home Affairs provides the following estimated processing times:

Latest Common Reasons for 186 Visa Refusal & How to Avoid Them?

Applying for the 186 visa Australia can be a complex process, and even minor mistakes can lead to refusal. Understanding the common reasons for rejection and how to avoid them can significantly improve your chances of success.

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

• Missing forms, expired documents, or errors in the application can lead to immediate rejection.

1. Ineligible Occupation

• The nominated occupation must be on the relevant Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). An incorrect or mismatched occupation is grounds for refusal.

1. Unsatisfactory Skills Assessment

• If your skills assessment is outdated, incorrect, or not from the appropriate assessing authority, your application may be denied.

1. Failure to Meet English Language Requirements

• Not achieving the required English test scores (e.g., IELTS/PTE) at the time of lodgment can lead to refusal.

1. Health or Character Issues

• Failing health checks or having a criminal record without proper documentation can result in visa denial.

1. Employer Nomination Refusal

• If the employer’s nomination is deemed non-genuine or if the business fails to meet sponsorship obligations, the visa is automatically refused.

1. Incorrect Stream Selection

• Applying under the wrong stream (Direct Entry, TRT, Labour Agreement) can disqualify your application.

1. Late Submission or Lodging Before Nomination Approval

• Submitting your visa application before the nomination is approved may render it invalid.

Also Read: What is the Average Salary in Australia per Month?

186 Visa Australia: Latest Changes & Policy Updates (2025)

As of 2025, significant updates have been made to Australia's Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visa, particularly affecting the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream. These changes aim to provide greater flexibility for skilled workers and their employers.

1. Expanded Work Experience Criteria for TRT Stream

• Previous Requirement: Applicants needed to complete two years of employment with the same sponsoring employer.

• Updated Requirement: Now, applicants can accumulate the required two years of full-time work experience within the last three years across multiple approved sponsors. This means that employment periods with different approved employers can be combined to meet the eligibility criteria.

2. Removal of Continuous Employment Mandate

• The obligation for continuous employment with a single employer has been lifted. Applicants can now include non-consecutive employment periods, provided they total two years within the specified timeframe.

3. Inclusion of STSOL Occupations

• Occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) are now eligible for the TRT stream, expanding opportunities for a broader range of skilled workers. 

4. Expanded Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)

• The CSOL has been significantly expanded from 216 to 456 occupations, incorporating roles in sectors such as construction, cybersecurity, agriculture, health, education, hospitality, and tourism. This expansion enhances the eligibility for the Direct Entry stream. 

5. Introduction of the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa

• The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa has been replaced by the Skills in Demand (SID) visa as of December 2024. This new visa framework aligns with the updated 186 visa pathways, particularly affecting the TRT stream.

Conclusion

The 186 visa Australia remains one of the most reliable and rewarding pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers and their families. With multiple streams tailored to diverse employment scenarios, expanded eligibility in 2025, and benefits like full work rights, Medicare access, and a clear path to citizenship, this visa offers long-term security and opportunity. Whether you’re applying through the Direct Entry, Temporary Residence Transition, or Labour Agreement stream, understanding the latest requirements, costs, and processes is essential for a smooth application.

To learn more about the 186 visa Australia, visit TerraTern now.